NCJ Number
210066
Date Published
2004
Length
48 pages
Annotation
This booklet for crime victims in Mississippi presents information on victims rights and services as well as the criminal justice process.
Abstract
The booklet first describes the responsibilities and services offered to crime victims by various divisions within Mississippi's Office of the Attorney General. This is followed by a section with general information that addresses the emotional effects of crime, financial considerations, what victims can do to cooperate effectively in the response to and the processing of their case, and the rights of victims when responding to media involvement in covering their case. The description of the criminal justice process first distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony cases and then describes the various types of courts and their jurisdiction. The booklet then lists the 24 rights of crime victims that constitute victims' rights mandated by the Mississippi Constitution. The law enforcement officer assigned to a case gives the victim a packet of information that informs him/her about the availability of emergency and crisis services; Crime Victim Compensation Division services and benefits; contact information for the officer and agency assigned to the case; the steps involved in prosecuting a criminal case; crime victims' rights; and contact information for the prosecuting attorney. Other sections of the booklet discuss elements of criminal procedure (investigation, victim assistance coordinator, probable cause, arrest, and sentencing). Details are provided on the processing of felony cases, postconviction procedure, crimes and penalties, and various resources available for crime victims.